Viscous Gel Removes Subsurface Stains in Aluminum

An example of Aluma-Cling Red at work alongside a photo of the gel’s container.
Photo Credit: Madison Chemical

Aluma-Cling Red, from Madison Chemical, is a viscous gel containing a balanced blend of surfactants and acids intended to remove severe subsurface stains from aluminum. The gel targets subsurface stains caused by tramp staining oxidation resulting from condensation, foul water, inadvertent soiling and white oxidation from aluminum, especially hot rolled, pickled and oiled (HRPO) materials. It may also be used with mild steel, stainless steel and copper.

Easily applied at full strength by pump, spray, manually wiping or brushing, Aluma-Cling Red is said to reduce the number of steps needed to obtain a clean, bright surface. In addition to removing subsurface staining, it is suited for removing soil and laser scale, heat treat scale and white oxidation from aluminum, aluminum substrates, mild steel, stainless steel, copper and more. As an added bonus, this formula also has the potential to help manufacturers and fabricators clean and use aluminum that might otherwise be scrapped due to staining issues.

For best results, Madison Chemical says to use Aluma-Cling Red at full strength (100%) at room temperature. Contact time varies with soil loading and application. Rinse thoroughly with water after use. For those who may need assistance in achieving their desired results, Madison Chemical technical sales representatives are available to help determine dilutions, dwell time, standard operating procedures and more. 

It is recommended that pumps, tubing, fittings and any other components which will be in regular contact with Aluma-Cling Red be constructed of or coated with Teflon, Viton, Kynar (PVDF), polypropylene to 72°F and polyethylene to 72°F.